BirdNote Daily The Joy of Robins with J. Drew Lanham
Nov 17, 2025
J. Drew Lanham, a poet and ornithologist, shares his unique perspective as a Black man from the American South, highlighting how his love for the outdoors intertwines with his experiences. He explores the concept of radical joy, detailing how simple moments with robins during daily walks can transform ordinary life into a source of profound happiness. Lanham emphasizes joy as a deliberate choice and a superpower that fuels resilience and strength in challenging times. Prepare to see birdwatching in a whole new light!
AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
Joy As Sustaining Superpower
- Drew connects his lived experience and love of wilderness to radical joy as a sustaining force.
- He frames joy as a superpower that keeps you alive from moment to moment.
Robins As Everyday Joy
- J. Drew Lanham describes finding joy on daily walks and by watching ordinary birds like robins.
- He recounts a spring watching robins basking in sunlight, blinking and yawning, simply being present.
Actively Choose And Keep Joy
- Grab and hold joy deliberately; make it a chosen practice in daily life.
- Turn to joy however you find it and use it as your superpower to stay present and alive.